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Rosenboom Success Story

Situation:
Every day over 37 million Americans are faced with the challenges of living on very low incomes. Many of the challenges are due to misunderstanding the many hardships these families face on a daily basis.

Response:
Over 115 students at Dordt College were exposed to some of the daily challenges faced by families living in poverty by participating in the “State of Poverty Welfare Simulation” presented by Iowa State University Family Life field specialist Rhonda Rosenboom, and Sioux County Extension Education Director Cheryl Heronemus, The simulation was sponsored by the Dordt College FACT Club (Future Active Christian Teachers), and included students majoring in education, social work, youth ministries and other career programs at Dordt.

Impact:
Frustrated, helpless and overwhelmed were words that summed up most of the students reactions to the simulation.

  • How did my parents do this in the early 90’s with 4 kids to take care of? My parents were farming and lost everything. Dad got a job in town and started to turn things around. We also were involved in Fairshare and other programs.

Following are comments from participants when asked what changes will you make in your work to better each individuals and families in poverty:

  • Understand where they come from. I forget how hard it is and that you can not just ask for unreasonable requests
  • I need to keep in mind that needs of my students more fully. They might have a difficult life at home that affects their schooling
  • I hope to work with the SSWA in starting a food drive to give to a pantry
  • Always keep in mind that needs of those around me – not seeing it from what I need, but from needs of others
  • I won’t be so judgmental about people living in poverty. It’s easy to think “well” they could just find a job and get out of their situation but in all reality, some people can’t
  • I think I will be much more sensitive about /aware of the costs that school can bring and how much poverty can effect children

b. what new programs and/or policies you will institute in your agency, organization or
community

  • I would love to see Dordt organize a food and clothing drive for Mid-Sioux

7. What do you think or feel about using the welfare simulation as a way to sensitize people to the plight of families with low-incomes?

  • I thought it was a great idea. I was so frustrated after being exposed for such a short time and yet I go back to my comfortable life, these families don’t
  • It opened our minds and broadened our horizons of how hard it is for families of low income
  • Very well, I never understood how frustrating it really was. Some things that I thought would be a big concern were not, but other things were
  • I think that it is definitely helpful because many people are so out of touch with the needs and pressures on the poor
  • I think it worked very well- it definitely gives you a sense of helplessness

Results:
After the simulation Extension staff was approached with the possibility of having the simulation repeated on a semester basis for students in the general education classes. This is being investigated at the present time.

Contact:
Rhonda Rosenboom
Box 99 340 th 2nd Street, SE
Primghar IA 51245
Phone 712-957-5045; Fax 712-957-5065
Email rrosenb@iastate.edu

..........more stories....................!

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Last update: February 27, 2007 
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